Kinship Navigator Training for Caseworkers

For generations, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings have cared for and supported for their young relatives. Families often plan for and adapt to parental absences, such as deployments, illnesses, or lengthy work-related travel. And in times of crisis, when a child’s environment is unsafe, or their parent is unable to provide full-time care and stability, relatives step up to care for the children in their family.

Wisconsin is a national leader in relative placements. Our child welfare system believes when a child is unsafe and out-of-home care is necessary, placement with relatives is best practice. It provides unique benefits, lessens the negative effects, and promotes a child’s permanency and wellbeing

This training is an opportunity for caseworkers to:

• Better understand the perspective of relative caregivers.
• Recognize the unique circumstances of relative caregiving.
• and how caseworkers can build partnerships with caregivers through supportive, affirming practice.